The joy of paper mail.

I did something crazy today--I poured a glass of pink lemonade, located a fairly ancient pack of stickers, sat down and started to write a letter to a friend. A letter on real paper, with a real pen! I had to laugh at myself as I did it, because I felt so strange doing something which was completely normal for all of us until only about 10 years ago. How quickly things change. I honestly can't remember the last time I sent a letter (not a card, but an actual letter) by mail.

I was also laughing at myself because after writing one page, my hand was completely cramping up!

I have been feeling lately that I want to be free of the computer more often. And I have also been wishing that people communicated with pen and paper a little more often than we do. Then I realized that I was being ridiculous. What on earth is stopping me from writing a letter to anyone, whenever I want to? Just because email is quicker and more convenient doesn't mean I am required by law to use it!

There was an email I have been meaning to answer for ages, a long one from from a new friend. So today instead of writing her back online, I printed off her email for reference,  pulled a few sheets of paper from the printer and sat down to write. Why not?

I'm sure I'm not the only one out there who loves getting something in the mailbox besides bills and advertisements. I truly believe more of us should send a real letter or card to a friend more often--I have a feeling it would bring a bigger smile to her face than an email or e-card could. There is something special about seeing the handwriting of someone you care about, and knowing that the paper you are holding they also held, before it was sent across the miles. And of course, it's nice to know that someone took the time to write to you, and then bring the letter to the mailbox, too.

I wonder if I can even buy pretty stationary anywhere, anymore? I guess the kind intended for computer printers would work. :)

I challenge all my readers to consider writing a real letter this week to someone dear--even if it's just a few lines. I think you might enjoy it!

Comments

[Elizabeth]

I am with you on this ;) I used to have so many pen-pals, and now no one has pen pals by mail. Not long ago one of my childhood best friends told me she wanted to start writing "real" letters again, like we used to. I was tickled pink, having had the very same idea. Our letters are not often, maybe every other month- but they are very cherished. Good job!

[Carrie Drake]

I still send cards and less occasionally letters. You can still buy beautiful stationary but you could make your own with stickers, photos, fabric, pressed flowers, stamps(you can even make those yourself). you can buy stock paper and envelopes at Michael's and the dollar store or use computer paper. The possibilitie are endless!!! have fun! Coincidently I was thinking the other day that I had to write some notes off to friends...now you have inspired me to get busy and stop daydreaming!!

[Only in Louisiana ~ documenting the adventures we call Life!]

Your right ~ it is so nice to get a real card from someone you love. My mother taught me a neat trick that I do with the few cards that I now recieve...place them in various cookbooks. When you pull out a cookbook, could be years from now, the card will be there and is always a sweet reminder of someone who sent you well wishes in the the past. Oftentimes, when I find a card this way, it is a birthday card given to me 10 years ago from my now 18 year old, or a card from my deceased grandmother....such a fun way to preserve memories.

[Marlyn]

I still write letters and yes it is very difficult to find nice writing paper. Occasionally the Dollar Store has some and Staples as a limited supply ( 3 choices). No it is up to you and your computer to design nice writing paper..... or use the school lined stuff!

[Plain and Joyful Living]

It is so wonderful isn't it Laura?
I know what you mean about my hand cramping too:)
Warm wishes, Tonya

[Leah]

Great post! Rural mail is one of the simple pleasures in our quiet life, and I love writing and receiving letters. The trouble is, I seem to be doing more writing than receiving these days. I guess my life just isn't as busy as everyone else's. ;) Heck, it's even getting rare to receive a personal email, since facebook came along (which I'm not on, so I'm really out of touch!!) It's all so impersonal...but now I'm starting to sound old. lol. If you're ever looking for another pen pal....

[heather]

My grandmother and I usually communicate by mail. We do the occasional phone call, but it costs more money than a stamp and I always get off the phone realizing that I forgot to tell her things. A letter allows me to take a few days to write it (since it's usually 6-8 pages) and make sure I have all my thoughts enclosed. I eagerly anticipate her reutn letter! We write on a bi-monthly basis usually.
I'm so glad you've encouraged your readers to pick up a pen and paper! :)

[heather]

Oh, and I forgot to add that I have found great stationary at garage sales and thrift stores for very little!

[lisa]

Hi Laura,
Just popping in to say that I am taking your challenge. Thanks for the inspiration ~lisa